Day Tour: Hidden Markets of Thessaloniki, Greece
Explore the markets of a vibrant city with a lingering history. Wander through markets selling everything from flowers to food, jewellery & antiques. Walk down historic lanes, see amazing sights and discover the unique oil-trading Ladadika area.
£19
Greentraveller's Travel Advice: From the UK, there are two scenic and green options to reach Greece. Your first option is travelling by train to Bari via Paris and Bologna before hopping on to the overnight to Patras which is followed by a bus ride to Athens. Alternatively, ferry and bus travel can be avoided by travelling by train to Thessaloniki and Athens via Paris, Munich and Bucharest.
>> For full details, see: Train, Ferry and Bus from London to Athens
Details of Urban Adventure in Thessaloniki: Hidden Markets of Thessaloniki
Since ancient times, Thessaloniki has been an important centre of trade and commerce for the entire Balkan region. These days Thessaloniki is a very modern city but it still manages to preserve a strong sense of its rich history. Contemporary architecture stands next to age-old monuments, and the world of Byzantium still feels very much alive.
On this walking tour you'll discover the hidden markets of Thessaloniki, where local artisans create fine jewellery, leather, copper and bronze products, in the same way they have for centuries. You'll be surprised and impressed by how many professions from the past remain preserved in this intriguing city.
Your adventure starts in the great Aristotelous Square, before heading on through one of the city's busiest commercial districts and on to Louloudadika – the flower shop centre – before having the opportunity to admire the Turkish baths of Giahoudi Hamam. Next you can explore the open-air markets, Modiano and Kapani, which date back to the 12th century: an unforgettable experience. Fish, fresh vegetables, fruit, dairy products, traditional butchers, and spices from the east are combined in a special place that still seeps a world thought gone by.
Close by is the Chalkeon market: here you'll get to meet coppersmiths who have maintained their traditional profession and craftsmanship. Wander through the Student’s market before journeying back in time at the Paliatzidika market. Continue on to lively Bit Pazar, a neighbourhood whose history dates back to 1928, and always a good opportunity to take some unique photos. Your discovery of Thessaloniki's hidden markets will end in Ladadika, a place celebrated for its role in trading oil. Memories from those years will come to life as your local expert guide leads you along its atmospheric paved alleyways whilst teaching you about its history.
Today, Ladadika is a place where you can find some of Thessaloniki’s best cafes, restaurants and bars, and this is where our walking tour ends, so why not take the chance to stay longer and lunch at one of Ladadika’s eateries? A fantastic conclusion your morning tour through the city’s markets.
Location
Plan your journey by train
Meeting point:
Kinissi Palace Hotel - at the hotel's cafe. 41 Egnatia str & 17 Siggrou str.
Thessaloniki Station
Transfer to meeting point:
Guests make their own way to meeting point
Kinissi Palace Hotel is a 10-15 minute walk from the railway station. From the station head straight down Monastiriou, which becomes Egnatia street, where the hotel is found.
How to get there:
Train from London to Thessaloniki (via Bucharest - train departs 1224, arriving 0540)
Plan your journey by train
Finish point:
Ladadika area
Thessaloniki Station
Transfer to finish point:
Guests make their own way to station
The Ladadika area is around 15 minutes walk from the station, up Dodekanisou and then Monastiriou.
How to get back:
Train from Thessaloniki to London (via Bucharest - train to Bucharest departs 0028, arriving 1830)
